Kissing Manaslu Trek - 12 Days

Mount Manaslu (8163 m), the highest peak of the Gorkha massif, is ranked as the eighth highest mountain in the world. It is located about forty miles east of Annapurna, the tenth among the world’s tallest mountains. The name Manaslu is derived from the Sanskrit word "Manasa" and can be roughly translated as "Mountain of the Spirit". Interestingly, an all-female Japanese expedition successfully ascended to the summit, thereby making it the first 8,000-meter peak to be ascended by women. The first survey of the peak was made by a Japanese expedition in 1952 and the first climb was made by a Japanese team in 1953. Kissing Manaslu trek begins from the middle hill of Besisahar. It will be a 12 days’ trip, where you get an opportunity to come astoundingly close….as close as you could almost kiss the mighty gem-Manaslu !

Kissing Manaslu Trek actually happens to be the brainchild of the Mr. Ram Kumar Adhikari, the managing director of Marron Treks. His sheer love for nature and indefatigable effort to bring the beauty of hidden trails to limelight, has resulted in the creation of this appealing trek package which is perfect for those looking to caress the mountains while trekking through the most unique landscape on earth. The trails are as easy as a walk in the park at one time and contrastingly leaves you panting with its steep ascents at the other. As you advance further, you will encounter pockets of human settlements here and there. One among them is Bushme, a village swarmed with the people of Tamang community. You can make an interaction with the Tamangs and get acquainted to their culture and life patterns. You will literally have goose bumps when you ascend to the highest point of this trek, Cherpe (3300m), not because of the elevation, but the fascinating view of the majestic mountains you can behold from the top. Well, you might just get a temptation to kiss the mountains…but we suggest just only fantasize about doing so! The trails at some point demand a substantial amount of your calorie as you will have no choice but to wearily walk up the steep rugged path while going and subsequently make a meticulous descent on your way back. The melodious hymn of the gorgeous Marsyangdi River, wooing close-up encounter with the snowy and crispy Manaslu, the tickly yet treacherous trails, a congregation of twelve lakes known as Barapokhari and the chinky eyes and robust stature of the Tamangs, all are certain to be a part of your most treasurable memory. You cannot ask more from a short holiday!

OUTLINE ITINERARY

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)

Day 02: Kathmandu city sightseeing (1400m)

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (760m/6 - 7 hours)

Day 04: Trek from Besisahar to Bushme (916m/3 - 4 hours)

Day 05: Trek from Bushme to Chitre (2130m/5 - 6 hours)

Day 06: Trek from Chitre to Barahapokhari (3200m/4 hours)

Day 07: Trek from Barahapokhari to Cherpe (3300 m/5 hours)

Day 08: Rest day in Cherpe

Day 09: Trek from Cherpe to Chitre (2130m/6 hours)

Day 10: Trek from Chitre to Besisahar (760m/7 hours)

Day 11: Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu (1400m/6 - 7 hours)

Day 12: Final departure to your homeland or onward destination.

Important Snippets

The itinerary prescribed above is the standard template of the trip plan offered by Marron Treks which can be readily customized to match the guests’ preferences. However, the guests are expected to understand that the execution of the trip plan might be circumvented by an array of uncontrollable factors like bad weather, political turmoil, strikes, blockades and other unforeseen contingencies. Under such abnormal circumstances, the trip plans might undergo slight or sharp alterations, taking into consideration, the best interest of the clients. Wherever the changes are made, Marron Treks cannot be held responsible for the consequences. Nevertheless, we shall endeavor our level best to make sure that the trip is carried out with respect to the original trip specifics.

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu(1400m)

Upon arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, you need to accomplish your entry/visa formalities. You will then be received by a representative from Marron Treks and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. Welcome drinks will be served and a short briefing will follow concerning the necessary formalities and your trekking itinerary. You can then spend the remaining time resting. In the evening you can stroll around the vicinity of your hotel just to get the feel of this wonderful city. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast included.

Day 02: Kathmandu city sightseeing(1400m)

Let’s savor the succulent breakfast and get ready for a guided tour to the historic, religious and cultural sites of Kathmandu. Hop in to our transport vehicle with an experienced city guide and drive through the hullabaloo of Kathmandu. Our guide will be taking you to visit the renowned sites listed in the UNESCO world’s heritage list- the Pasupatinath Temple (the most revered Hindu shrine), Swayambunath (the Monkey Temple) and Kathmandu (Basantapur) Durbar Square. After this interesting and informative tour, we drive back to the hotel. You can now head for shopping the trekking goodies. Most of the items are available on rent. You can take the help of our guide in identifying the best rental outlet. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast included.

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (760m/6 - 7 hours)

This day we drive towards Besisahar by bus.The journey takes about 6-7 hours. Driving along the blacktopped road, we can catch quick glimpses of Mt. Ganesh and Mt. Manaslu. Overnight at hotel in Besisahar; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 04: Trek from Besisahar to Bushme (916m/3 - 4 hours)

After breakfast, we proceed towards Bushme, a village with the settlements of people from the Tamang community. The route is fairly flat at the beginning but later takes a steep ascent. On the way, enjoy the sight of the beautiful Marsyangdi river as well some fascinating peaks, viz Himalchuli and Peak 29. We walk for about 3-4 hours until we arrive at our campsite in Bushme. Overnight at camp in Bushme; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 05: Trek from Bushme to Chitre (2130m/5 - 6 hours)

Trailing along the route to Chitre gives you a reminiscence of a nature trail as you do not encounter any human settlements on the way. This trek offers you the best views of the mountains like Manaslu, Pisang, Peak 29 and Annapurna range. We walk for about 5-6 hours and then finally arrive at our campsite in the middle of a jungle. You will enjoy the night here as this is possibly the most spacious campsite we have in the entire trekking itineraries. Overnight at camp in Chitre; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 06: Trek from Chitre to Barahapokhari (3200m/4 hours)

We will have to walk for about four hours to reach Barahapokhari from Chitre. This would be more like a pilgrimage rather than a trek because Barahapokhari happens to be a holy Lake and people come here to take a dip on the occasion of Janai Purnima. Although the first half of the route to Chitre is easy going, the later half could challenge you a bit with its daunting steep ascents. Pack lunch will be served on the way. Overnight at camp in Barahapokhari; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 07: Trek from Barahapokhari to Cherpe (3300 m/5 hours)

Walking for about 5 hours along the slightly steep route, we finally reach Cherpe. On reaching Cherpe we will have attained the highest altitude in this Trek. Cherpe happens to be the viewpoint that caters you some of closest and the most captivating views of the peaks like, Boudha Himal, Peak 29, Annapurna Range, Khanguru and Pissang. Overnight at camp in Cherpe; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 08: Rest day in Cherpe

We spend a day more at Cherpe to rest and replenish all the energy used up in the long walks so far. We can also hike around the vicinity of Cherpe. This is the last point of our trek and we will now be making our way back to the point from where we started. Overnight at camp in Cherpe; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 09: Trek from Cherpe to Chitre (2130m/6 hours)

We make our way back along the steep downhill route. Excellent close-up views of the peaks like Boudha Himal, Khanguru, Pissang and Annapurna Range greet our eyes. Cherpe to Chitre is a long walk which takes us nearly 6 hours. Overnight at camp in Chitre; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 10: Trek from Chitre to Besisahar(760m/7 hours)

Very akin to the previous day's walk, we trail along a steep downhill route for almost 7 hours until we finally arrive at Besisahar. Overnight at hotel in Besisahar; breakfast, lunch and dinner included..

Day 11: Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu (1400m/6 - 7 hours)

Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu is outstandingly scenic. Once you arrive at Kathmandu, you will be received by a representative from Marron Treks and then transferred to your hotel. You still have a whole chunk of the day remaining. So you can make the best use of time going in for a shopping. Thamel is the tourists’ shopping stop. It’s your last night in Nepal, and we want it to be memorable. In the evening, Marron Treks will host a farewell dinner featuring the range of delicious Nepali cuisines and a cultural program. You’ve toiled hard during the trek, so we want you to enjoy even harder tonight. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast and dinner included.

Important Snippets

The itinerary prescribed above is the standard template of the trip plan offered by Marron Treks which can be readily customized to match the guests’ preferences. However, the guests are expected to understand that the execution of the trip plan might be circumvented by an array of uncontrollable factors like bad weather, political turmoil, strikes, blockades and other unforeseen contingencies. Under such abnormal circumstances, the trip plans might undergo slight or sharp alterations, taking into consideration, the best interest of the clients. Wherever the changes are made, Marron Treks cannot be held responsible for the consequences. Nevertheless, we shall endeavor our level best to make sure that the trip is carried out with respect to the original trip specifics.

Along the trekking route, there are many Tea House/ Lodgesto stay. They provide good services. We will ensure you get the best of the services available so that you enjoy every bit of your trek.

Meals

We arrange the best quality food during the trek as we are concerned about the health of the trekkers as well as the staff members. Basically, we opt for locally available food in the Annapurna Region so that you could a real sense of the culture, living patterns, simultaneously promoting the locally available resources of organic food and beverages. Other than, a wide range of Continental, Chinese, Italian and Indian cuisines like Pizza, Spaghetti, French Fries, Soups, Breads etc are also available for your retreat.

Porter and Staff Care

We ensure that all the porters and other staffs going to high altitude conditions are provided with adequate clothing and equipments. They are the backbones of a trek.

Best Months

January - May and September - December are considered to be best for this trek.

Any Experience Required ?

For Kissing Manaslu Trek no such former experience required. Physical fitness is the only key to accomplish this trek.

Difficulties

Along the trial there are ups and downs which could bother the trekkers at times but apart from that there is nothing much to worry about.

Our Guides

Guides play a very active role during the trek. Marron Treks has experienced and helpful treking guides who make your trip enjoyable as well as productive. Our guides are literate, multilingual speakers, environment conscious and well acquainted to culture, language, location and every single detail pertaining to the Annapurna Region. This would help our trekkers make the most of their trip.

Travel Insurance

It is advised that you arrange your travel insurance before leaving your homeland. The main thing is to make sure that your insurance covers you for both medical and evacuation costs. In some places it is not necessary but it would be better if you have the travel insurance with you all the time. That would make your trip safe and hassle free.

Entrance and monumental fees during the sightseeing in Kathmandu as prescribed in the itinerary.

Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on "BB" basis, in Besisahar on "full board" basis.

All trekking accommodation costs on full board (B, L, D) basis as per the itinerary. Four seasonal sleeping bag (to be returned after trip completion) duffel bag, t-shirt and Cap (provided as complimentary gears).

Nepal entry visa fee – Visa can be obtained upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 15 days costs US $ 25 or equivalent foreign currency, Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 30 days and 90 days costs US $40 and $ 100 respectively. You will need a valid passport and 2 copies of your recent PP sized photos).

Cost incurred due to the addition of extra days or change in the real course of the itinerary because of bad weather conditions, political turmoil or any other unforeseen contingencies.

Garbage deposit fees (refundable).

Any other expenses not mentioned in the 'Cost Includes' section above.

TREKKING GEARS & EQUIPMENTS

Needless to say that kitting and stuffing yourself out for a trek is almost a herculean task which keeps you mulling and often gets you overwhelmed. But at the mercy of the renting outlets sprouting in every visible corner in Kathmandu, preparing for trekking in Nepal these days is almost tantamount to equipping yourself for a weekend backpacking trip. Most of the heavy and expensive items are easily available on rent, so you don’t actually have to travel Nepal with a cartload of gears. We have endeavored to formulate a categorical checklist that gives you a tentative idea regarding the gears and accessories mandatory for you during the trek. The list could vary depending upon the kind of trek you pursue, the terrain, weather conditions and time of the year. For instance, you don’t need the camp-trek equipments when you are on a tea-house trek. This listing below simply serves as a guideline and you can always have your own checklist. It is always preferable to pack light and the key to this is to carry the gears and accessories that have multidimensional uses.

CLOTHING (Core & Lower body)

Water-proof (breathable fabric) jacket, Poncho or Umbrella

Hard shell pants (breathable fabric- 1 set), preferably that zips from top and bottom which can be worn over boots without getting undressed, in case of abrupt weather changes

Duffle bag (will be provided by Marron Treks as a complimentary gear and you needn't return it )

Pack cover (to protect your gears from getting wet)

Day sack/Nylon stuff sack

Sleeping Bag/ Silk liner (will be provided by Marron Treks but

should be returned after the trip)

Water bottle

Good head torch along with spare batteries and bulbs

Maps, compass and a guide book

Trekking poles

Miscellaneous Bits

The items below could seem trivial, but if you don’t have them, you might just find

yourself sticky and stinky, which isn’t actually good for you!

Toiletries

Quick-drying camp towel

Detergent powder/bar

Toilet paper

Sunscreen Lotion (SPF 20+) & Lip balm

Pocket knife

Sewing/Repair Kit (for tent & mattress)

Emergency kit including a whistle, waterproof match/lighter

Padlocks for bags and lodge rooms

Stuff sacks

Earplugs

Candlesticks

Medicaments

It is important that you can include the medicines prescribed by your doctor. Below is just the generic list of medications. We advice you to always consult your travel doctor as you might be resistant or allergic to some medicines

Anesthetics (Ibuprofen/Aspirin)

Broad spectrum antibiotics tablets

Metronidazole and Antacids (for diarrohea /indigestion)

Broad spectrum ointments (Neosporin/ Clotrimazole/Gentamicin)

Antiseptic liquids (Dettol/Savlon)

Assorted band-aids

Small gauge pad

Roll of adhesive tape

Iodine tablets

Optional Carry

Nothing hard and fast about carrying the items in this list as they are not the basics. Yet, though not all, if you still manage to squeeze in some of these items on your carry, you will not regret as they might just come handy during the trek

Camera, memory card and battery charger

GPS unit Altimeters

Binoculars

Pee bottle for men (leak proof/wide mouth) & Pee funnel for women

Books and magazines

Departure Date

Marron Treks has calibrated fixed departure dates for all the trek packages. We operate group as well as individual/private treks. Please pick the most palpable date for you and book your trip now. If the dates below don’t fit your schedule, kindly contact us directly and let us know about your preference.

Trip Facts

Starting Price: USD XXXX (On request)

Group Size: 01 – 12 Pax

Trip Grade: Moderate

Accommodation: Camping

Transportation: Private Car/Jeep

Highest Elevation: Cherpe (3300m)

Lowest Elevation: Besisahar (760m)

Average Walking Hours per Day: 5 Hours

Trek Commences From: Beshisahar (760m)

Trek Terminates At: Beshisahar (760m)

Best Months: Jan-May & Sep-Dec

Trip Highlights

Cruise around Kathmandu valley with an experienced city guide and explore the most famed historical and cultural landmarks herein

Come astoundingly close to the mighty Mt. Manaslu (8163m)…so close that you could almost plant a kiss on its snowy white countenance!!